Irish Potatoes Grown in Washington; Modification of Special Purpose Shipment Regulations

This rule modifies the special purpose shipment regulations currently prescribed under the Washington potato marketing order. The marketing order regulates the handling of Irish potatoes grown in Washington, and is administered locally by the State of Washington Potato Committee (Committee). This rule modifies the reporting requirements, procedures, and safeguard provisions for making certain special purpose potato shipments. Under the marketing order, such special purpose shipments may be exempted from the quality, assessment, or inspection requirements. The changes include removal of the special purpose exemption for exported potatoes, clarification of the reporting procedures for potatoes diverted to processing, and addition of safeguard provisions for shipments of seed potatoes and shipments to charitable organizations. These changes will help facilitate special purpose shipments, while enhancing the Committee's compliance program.